Published: October 31, 2011

Bloodshed Escalates in Gaza Strip and Southern Israel

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Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon expressed deep concern today at the recent escalation of violence and bloodshed in both southern Israel and the Gaza Strip that has reportedly left around a dozen people dead.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban condemned rocket fire launched from inside Gaza, which has killed an Israeli civilian in the country''s south, and called for its complete cessation.

He also urged Israel to exercise maximum restraint after the country''s military forces reportedly killed 10 alleged militants in Gaza.

"I hope that the parties will fully respect the calm as brokered by Egypt."
- Mr. Ban

Mr. Ban said the Office of the Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, headed by Robert Serry, remained actively engaged with the Israelis and Palestinians in supporting efforts to end the violence.

It was only ten days ago that Hamas released Gilad Shalit, after holding him captive since June 2006. Shalit was released in exchange for the release of more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The first 477 of those prisoners were released the same day as Shalit.

Mr Ban previously called the agreed exchange of prisoners by Israel and Hamas a "significant humanitarian breakthrough." At that time, he hoped it would have a far-reaching and positive impact on the stalled Middle East peace process.